John Thomas James, age 88, of Hot Springs, SD, passed away January 28, 2015.

John was born in Lincoln, NE, January 29, 1926, to Thomas A. James and Ruth (Munger) James. He graduated High School in Stromsburg, NE, and then attended the University of Lincoln Nebraska.

John enlisted in the Army Air Force during World War II, then in the Navy during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in 1953. After returning to Omaha, NE, he worked as a Real Estate Broker until he moved to Hot Springs, SD, in 1991. From 1992-2007 he worked for the US forestry service in Hot Springs, SD, in the senior program.

John shared many years with his cherished partner, Polli Ann Thomas. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed playing ping pong and riding on the back of his best friend Roger's trike. He was also known for his sense of humor. He loved taking his adorable dog, Dakota, for walks. He was also an active member of the Shriner of Omaha, NE, and the American Legion in Hot Springs, SD.

Preceded in death by his parents, Thomas A. James and Ruth James; grandparents, Judge Thomas Charles Munger and Carrie Case Munger.

John is survived by his loving partner, Polli Ann Thomas; daughter, Cari Ruth Rennie of Napa, CA; son, John Thomas James, Jr. of Omaha, NE; grandchildren, Tiffany (Matthew) Carman, Jeffrey (Tracy) Rennie, Kyle M. James and Christopher R. James; and great grandson, Wyatt Sterling Carman.
Other extended-family survivors include Tami (Ron) Dross; Nicholas, Sierra "Rosie" and Xandrea Dross of Hot Springs, SD.

Interment of ashes will be held at 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, February 11, 2015, the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, SD.

In lieu of flowers memorials in John's name may be sent to Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home at, PO BOX 812, Hot Springs, SD, 57747.